Birds in Athy are now happily nesting in over 100 new homes in South Kildare thanks to the interest of local volunteer groups, who took inspiration from the National Tidy Town's 'Notice Nature' theme.

The Athy Men's Shed project, in conjunction with Athy Tidy Towns, has installed over 100 bird nest boxes at a number of locations in the town over recent weeks. The hardworking team at local Men's Shed, which is based at the Community Enterprise Centre, spent countless hours perfecting the suitable homes that were installed on the many trees and known nesting areas. The project was sponsored by Athy Town Council and Kildare Leader Partnership, with guidance from Bird Watch Ireland.

To ensure that the new residents are happy with the wider environment, the Tidy Towns Group has recommenced weekly litter patrols and additional volunteers are always particularly welcome (Telephone/ text: 086 8470232 or Email: athyshines@gmail.com)